Join us for the 2026 ACT Golden Gavel comedy speaking competition!
Each year, early career lawyers test their public speaking skills and comedic genius at Golden Gavel competitions across the country. The winners of each competition then face off at the National Golden Gavel. The competition is an opportunity for emerging lawyers to showcase their advocacy and comedy skills, with each given five minutes to argue their case on a far-fetched topic — revealed only 24 hours beforehand.
A panel of eminent judges will choose the winner, based on the speech’s humour, cleverness, and originality, and the performer’s presence and delivery, while the assembled gathering will decide the People’s Choice Award.
Come along and cheer for our brave lawyers as they battle it out in the ACT Golden Gavel comedy speaking competition. Each will deliver a five-minute speech on a wildly unexpected, loosely legal topic — revealed just 24 hours before showtime. Expect wit, wisdom, and a whole lot of laughter as they showcase their advocacy skills with a comedic twist.
Think You’ve Got What It Takes? Nominate Now
Fancy yourself a future courtroom star with a flair for comedy, or know someone who does? If you’re a current ACT Law Society member with less than five years’ post admission, we’d love to hear from you.
Nominate yourself or a colleague by emailing events@actlawsociety.asn.au by COB Tuesday 11 August 2026. If you’d like more information before nominating, feel free to get in touch — we’re happy to answer any questions.
EVENT DETAILS
- When: 5:30pm - 7:30pm I Friday 21 August 2026
- Where: ACT Law Society - Level 1, 5 Constitution Ave, Canberra
- Cost: $30 per person (Cost includes finger food and drinks)
- RSVP: Thursday 20 August 2026
Registration
| Single ticket | $30.00(GST incl.) | Register |
